Why Rewire Outlets and Switches Yourself?
Rewiring outlets and switches in your home can seem like a daunting task, but with proper preparation and safety precautions, it is quite feasible to do it yourself without hiring an electrician. Here are some of the key benefits of doing your own electrical work:
- Save money on electrician fees. The hourly rate for an electrician can easily top $100. Rewiring a home yourself can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in labor costs.
- Gain the satisfaction of completing a major DIY home improvement project and learning a new skill.
- Have flexibility over when the project is completed rather than waiting for an electrician's schedule.
- Make upgrades to your electrical system on your own timeline.
As long as you educate yourself on electrical safety, take the time to plan the project carefully, and get any necessary permits, rewiring outlets and switches is a DIY job many homeowners can tackle successfully.
Evaluating Your Electrical Know-How
Before beginning any electrical work in your home, honestly evaluate your skill level and knowledge. Here are some key considerations:
- Do you understand basic electrical principles and terminology? Can you identify the hot wire, neutral wire, and ground wire and understand their functions?
- Are you familiar with the National Electrical Code requirements for outlet and switch wiring?
- Do you know how to manipulate and join electrical wires correctly and safely?
- Can you look at an existing outlet or switch and determine how it is wired?
- Do you know how to use a voltage tester to be absolutely certain the power is off before working?
If you answered "no" to any of these questions, I'd strongly recommend spending time educating yourself further before attempting to rewire outlets and switches. Enroll in a class at a local trade school, watch online tutorials, read books and articles on home electrical work, and ask an expert electrician friend to mentor you.
Developing a Rewiring Plan
Before touching a single wire, it's crucial to have a plan in place for the electrical project. Here are key steps in the planning process:
- Examine the existing outlets and switches you want to rewire and understand exactly how they are currently wired.
- Decide how you want to reconfigure the wiring. For example, you may want to replace a switch with a dimmer, add additional outlets to a room, or wire in-wall USB charging ports.
- Draw up a basic diagram of the outlets and switches involved, along with your planned new wiring setup.
- Compile a list of all necessary materials and tools, such as wire, wire strippers, outlet and switch boxes, volt meter, etc.
- Determine if you need additional circuit capacity for added outlets and plan accordingly.
- Research if a permit is required in your region for home electrical work.
Thorough planning and preparation is time well spent for a smooth, problem-free wiring project.
Safety First! Critical Tips for Rewiring Outlets/Switches
Working with electrical wires while the circuit is live can be extremely hazardous or even fatal. Your safety is absolutely paramount. Here are crucial safety measures to follow:
- Turn off the power! Using a non-contact voltage tester, double check that the appropriate circuit breaker is off and there is no active power in the wires before touching them.
- With the power off, disconnect any outlets/switches by removing the wires. Cap them with wire nuts.
- Only work on one circuit at a time to avoid crossed wires.
- Wear electrical gloves and use insulated tools when working with wires.
- Keep one hand in your pocket as you work to avoid accidental shock.
- Never work alone - have someone present in case of emergency.
- Triple check your work and connections before restoring power.
Follow these precautions and you can safely rewire your home electrical system and enjoy the rewards!
Step-by-Step Guide to Rewiring an Outlet or Switch
Once you've completed all planning and preparation, it's time to get to work! Follow these key steps:
Supplies Needed
- Wire strippers
- Voltage tester
- Electrical tape
- Wire nuts
- Fish tape (optional)
- Drywall saw
Turn Off Power and Disconnect Wires
- Turn off the appropriate circuit breaker then verify power is off with a voltage tester.
- Remove cover plate from outlet/switch and unscrew it to expose wires.
- Carefully disconnect and label any wires connected to the outlet/switch. Set aside.
Prepare New Outlet/Switch Box
- If replacing the entire outlet or switch box, use a drywall saw to cut it out.
- Feed any new wiring to the box location as needed. Fish tape can help guide wires through walls.
- Secure the new electrical box.
Connect New Wires
- Refer to your wiring diagram for new connections.
- Attach the ground wire to the green screw or ground bar.
- Connect the white (neutral) wires together with a wire nut.
- Connect the black (hot) wires together.
- Attach applicable wires to the new outlet/switch screws.
Finish the Job
- Tuck wires neatly into the box, attach the outlet/switch, and secure the cover plate.
- Restore power and test operation.
- Clean up work area and verify no exposed wires.
Take your time and be extremely methodical and cautious at every step, and you can successfully rewire outlets and switches like a professional!
Common Questions and Challenges
How do I connect a new outlet by tapping into an existing circuit?
Use the existing outlet as the power source. Turn off the circuit breaker, verify power is off with a voltage tester, disconnect the outlet wires, and connect the new outlet hot (black) wire to the existng hot wire. Connect the new white (neutral) wire to the existing neutral wire with a wire nut. Ground the outlet properly per code.
What if I don't have a neutral wire in the switch box?
For a light switch, you only need the hot (black) wire and ground wire. You can connect the light using only the hot and neutral at the light fixture. Or, you can retrofit the Romex cable with a neutral wire.
What do I do if I'm adding a whole new circuit?
Running a new circuit involves running a new Romex cable from your main circuit panel to the first outlet on the circuit. Ensure your main panel has capacity for an additional circuit breaker. Follow National Electrical Code requirements for wire gauge and other specifications. Have an electrician review your work if at all uncertain.
Rewiring outlets and switches is very rewarding DIY work with proper education and preparation. Stay safe, be meticulous in your work, and you can transform your electrical system. Never hesitate to call a professional electrician if you have any doubts or if complications arise. I wish you the best of luck!